Yeah, you sound like the same thug that my grandchildren encounter while trying to ride their bikes with training wheels on the same trail as you, buddy. Or you may be the same thug that gets upset because my husband and I are walking along side by side along the trail.
Bicycle purists like yourself just make me angry. You seem to think you are the only one that payed taxes to build the trails and therefore you think you have the right to zip along enjoying the nice air and scenery, and be damned to the rest of us.
I actually slow down and keep my hands on the brakes when encountering children on bikes. Children on bike is a good thing. To make more bicyclists, start them out early on bikes.
I also respect the traffic laws, stopping at intersections and signalling my intention when I turn.
What surprises me about your comment is it is those seaving and speeding on the paths that are dangers to kids. If you think I don't like these things merely because they endanger and annoy me, guess again.
It is days away from the University of Oregon's Fall session, and the packs of beer and motorized scooter crowd will be terrorising the kids and waterfowl in Skinner Butte and Alten Baker parks once more.
I ride year round and give respect when it is shown me on the road or bike path. My attitude is heavily predicated by my experiences with inconsiderate and stupid people on fast gas and electric toys. And I see more and more of them and wonder what else others and myself will have to expect with these things getting the foot in the door to bringing motors on a path that should be for human muscle power only.
Good luck to you and your grandkids out there. And thanks for sharing, and good luck finding an appropriate scapegoat for bad bicycling behavior. They are out there, but it ain't me.